Physicists have used an old technique to make a new kind of material: a fabric that looks like glass. This material is clear enough to see through, incredibly thin, and snatches dust out of the air—all while seemingly evading the laws of classical physics to let the air flow unimpeded.

In what is becoming an increasingly polluted world, Chlorella, a portable, pod-shaped, air-purifying pavilion prototype (yes, all those p-words were in fact necessary), offers an oasis of fresh air in a zen-like and environmentally-friendly setting.

Ever feel the need to wear a face mask? Ever felt hot inside one? Well, Thanko's new fan-cooled mask may be just the ticket, with its USB power. USB? I've only ever worn a face mask when working with chemicals, and I've never strolled around in public wearing one. Both of which, presumably, would be difficult when…